Freesat partners with Arris for Generation 3 STB

Freesat has announced it is partnering with Arris to produce its new Generation 3 set top box.

The new device will offer viewers ultra high definition content and is due to launch in 2019.

It will use the KreaTV software platform from ARRIS to leverage the OTT framework for services including Netflix, Amazon, and YouTube. The new STB will feature four devices with 500GB, 1TB and 2TB hard drive options for DVR, plus one option without a hard drive.

The companies say the combination of Metaphor full stack, and ARRIS KreaTV middleware provides a platform for growth that can evolve to keep pace with the changing nature of modern TV provision and consumption.

Alistair Thom, managing director of Freesat, described the partnership as a "significant move" for the platform "because for the first time we will control the entire supply chain for our set-top box. It will be a great product, allowing us to offer customers ultra-high-definition viewing while continuing to provide viewers with access to the TV they want, when they want and in the format that they prefer."

Anthony Zuyderhoff, ARRIS SVP and GM of international CPE added: "We’re thrilled to be working with Freesat and entering the dynamic retail space in the UK. Looking ahead, the combination of Metaphor and KreaTV has great potential. It will allow us to deploy cutting-edge television to global customers through a hybrid platform that is quick, flexible and cost-effective to install, delighting viewers and advertisers alike."